Republic of the Philippines

POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES

College of Tourism, Hospitality and Transportation Management
Department of Hospitality Management

ABUNGIN, PATRICK RON R. Course: Entrepreneurship in Tourism and Hospitality Industry

BSHM 2-2N Date Submitted: June 21. 2024

REACTION PAPER: KALAKAL TRADE - CALABARZON 2024

I found attending the last day of the Kalakal Trade: CALABARZON at the Glorietta Activity
Center in Makati on June 16, 2024, to be a truly eye-opening experience. This occasion not only
showcased the extensive cultural heritage of the CALABARZON region, but also underscored
the significance of promoting local and sustainable products in enriching both our culture and
economy.

Upon entering the venue, I was struck by the variety of products on display. Each booth offered
something unique and fascinating, such as Laguna's beautiful woodcrafts or Batangas' rich
coffee. These products were not simply items for sale; they were an expression of the region's
history, traditions, and creativity. I was impressed by the depth of skill and effort that goes into
creating these crafts and goods.

The most rewarding aspect of the event was speaking directly with the artisans and
entrepreneurs. It was incredibly inspiring to hear their stories about how they started their
businesses, often from humble beginnings. Numerous of them emphasized the significance of
sustainability in their production procedures. For example, I spoke with a weaver who used
natural dyes and recycled materials in her beautiful fabrics. This has emphasized for me how
sustainable practices are not only beneficial for the environment but also add a distinct value to
the products.

One particular interaction captivated my attention. I met with a young entrepreneur from Cavite,
who had transformed her family's traditional weaving business into a modern brand. She
explained how blending traditional techniques with contemporary designs helped her reach new
markets while preserving her cultural heritage. This discussion reinforced the idea that
promoting local products is not only about economic growth, but also about keeping our cultural
traditions alive and relevant.
 Republic of the Philippines
POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES
College of Tourism, Hospitality and Transportation Management
Department of Hospitality Management

I found attending the Kalakal Trade: CALABARZON to be a deeply enriching experience. It

provided me with a greater appreciation for the creativity and hard work of local artisans and
entrepreneurs. Additionally, it highlighted the critical role that sustainable practices play in the
production of goods. Supporting these local and sustainable products is imperative not only for
boosting our economy but also for preserving and enriching our cultural heritage. This
experience has prompted me to exercise greater caution in my purchases and to provide
support to local enterprises that place emphasis on sustainability and cultural preservation.